CIRA International Visiting Fellow 2025 Seminar

In-Person Registration: https://yalesurvey.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9RomjRYxxx8HASa

Zoom Registration: https://yale.zoom.us/meeting/register/lzF9aJRFSM2-M9naZTW0rA

OVERVIEW

CIRA is hosting a seminar featuring a presentation by a CIRA International Visiting Fellow on HIV-related research in Kazakhstan. Join us to hear about the fellow's research and collaboration with their Yale faculty host, and participate in an interactive discussion and Q&A.

The primary purpose of the International Visiting Fellow Program is to support CIRA investigators engaged in HIV research in an international setting to bring an established or prospective research partner to CIRA and Yale for a short visit to work on collaborative HIV research endeavors, present on their research plans, and network with CIRA's research community. The program prioritizes visiting fellows from a country in regions with the highest burden of HIV/AIDS.

AGENDA

"Kazakhstan and Central Asia: Syndemics and Health Challenges in Transition"

Speaker – CIRA International Visiting Fellow: Assel Terlikbayeva, The Global Health Research Center of Central Asia, Kazakhstan
Yale faculty host: Frederick L. Altice, Yale School of Medicine
Moderator: Luke Davis, Yale School of Public Health

PRESENTATION ABSTRACT

This presentation will explore the evolving public health landscape in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, a region at the intersection of migration, social transformation, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Drawing on over a decade of work at the Global Health Research Center of Central Asia (GHRCCA), the talk will highlight how overlapping epidemics—HIV, TB, HCV, mental health disorders, and substance use—interact with structural inequities such as stigma, poverty, and limited access to services.

The syndemic framework will serve as a lens to examine key health challenges facing youth and marginalized populations, including rising mental health burdens and the effects of cross-border labor migration. Through examples from community-based research, the presentation will showcase participatory, peer-led models and digital innovations aimed at expanding access to testing, treatment, and care.

Case studies will include recent work on HIV self-testing, stigma reduction, and integrated services for people who inject drugs, sex workers, and LGBTQ+ individuals. The presentation will conclude with reflections on regional collaboration and opportunities to build more resilient, inclusive health systems in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.